In my game development class, I am using my own translation of Natsume Soseki’s “I am a Cat” as a basis for teaching Japanese literary conventions and non-canon literature through visual novels and digital storytelling. By adapting the novel into a visual novel format, students are able to explore the text in a more interactive and immersive way, engaging with the story and its themes on a deeper level.

Natsume Soseki’s “I am a Cat” is a classic work of Japanese literature, and one that has captured the imaginations of readers for over a century. The novel, which is narrated by a nameless, aloof feline, presents a satirical and often comical commentary on Japanese society during the Meiji era. Through the cat’s observations and interactions with humans, Soseki examines the absurdities and contradictions of Japanese culture, particularly in its attempts to modernize and westernize.

As a work of literature, “I am a Cat” is rich in Japanese literary conventions and techniques. Soseki employs elements of satire, irony, and parody to critique society and reveal its flaws. The novel also incorporates aspects of traditional Japanese literature, such as haiku and the use of nature imagery to convey deeper meanings.

One way in which I incorporated Japanese literary conventions into the visual novel is through the use of haiku. I have encouraged students to write their own haiku based on the themes and imagery of the novel, incorporating the 5-7-5 syllable structure and the use of nature imagery. By doing so, students not only gain a deeper understanding of the novel’s literary techniques, but also develop their own creative writing skills.

Another way in which I’m presenting the novel to teach non-canon literature is through the creation of branching storylines. In the visual novel, players are presented with choices that affect the outcome of the story, allowing them to experience different paths and endings. By doing so, students learn about the concept of non-canon literature, and how it allows for different interpretations and perspectives on a given text.

Overall, the adaptation of “I am a Cat” into a visual novel has allowed us to explore the rich literary traditions of Japan in a new and engaging way. By incorporating elements of haiku, branching storylines, and other literary techniques, we have created a unique and immersive experience that both teaches and entertains. Through this process, players (students) gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japanese literature and culture, and develop their own creative and critical thinking skills

Are you ready to take on the role of a curious and observant cat and embark on a journey of adventure and discovery? You are lying on the windowsill, watching the world outside, feeling bored and restless. Suddenly, you see a mouse scurry by, and you jump up, ready to chase after it. But then you hesitate. You’ve done this a million times before. You need a change.

Welcome to I am Neko, an interactive fiction adventure that will take you on a philosophical journey full of profound choices and life-altering decisions. In this game, you play as a curious and adventurous cat, exploring the world and discovering the secrets of life. But this is not just any ordinary game – I am Neko will challenge you to delve deep into the meaning of existence, question the nature of reality, and confront your own beliefs about life and purpose. And if that’s not enough, this game also settles the age-old debate about whether rats taste better than mice! You’ll have to make the ultimate culinary decision as you navigate through the game’s intriguing storyline. So, if you’re looking for a thought-provoking adventure that will leave you pondering the mysteries of life, then I am Neko is the game for you. Play now and discover the truth about yourself and the world around you. Will you decide to explore the city and interact with humans or stay in your comfortable home and observe the world from afar?

If you choose to venture out into the city, you might meet a group of children playing a game of tag and learn about their lives and what they enjoy doing. Or you might feel a sense of detachment and loneliness if you decide to stay at home and watch the world from your windowsill.

As you continue your adventures, you come across a strange object lying in a dark alleyway. Will you investigate the object and find out what it is or leave it alone and continue exploring?

If you decide to investigate the object, you might discover a mysterious amulet with strange powers that gives you the power to communicate with humans and animals. Or you might feel a sense of disappointment that you didn’t find anything new and exciting if you choose to leave the object alone.

As you explore the city and learn about the world around you, you begin to question your purpose in life. Will you search for the meaning of life or keep exploring and learning from the world around you?

If you search for the meaning of life, you might encounter a wise old cat who teaches you about the importance of finding your own purpose in life. Or you might continue exploring and learning from the world around you, gaining new knowledge and experiences.

Through your adventures and choices, you can experience different aspects of life and explore the complexities of human nature. Will you explore the city and meet a variety of humans or stay in your comfortable home? Will you discover your purpose in life and feel fulfilled and content, or continue learning and exploring with a sense of curiosity and wonder?

The Adventures of Cat is a visual novel that allows you to immerse yourself in the cat’s world and make choices that shape the outcome of the story. Are you ready to embark on this journey and discover what life has in store for you?

Overall, The Adventures of Cat is a visual novel that explores the themes of curiosity, purpose, and the search for meaning in life. Through the cat’s adventures and choices, players can experience different aspects of life and explore the complexities of human nature. The visual novel format allows players to immerse themselves in the cat’s world and make choices that shape the outcome of the story